Bing reveals that Brits are unable to distinguish between the UK’s top landmarks

1st May 2010

When it comes to recognising famous landmarks, it seems that the Brits are unable to distinguish between the UK’s top landmarks, as new research from Bing.com reveals the nation’s geographical IQ (GIQ).

Despite the popularity of the races, nearly two thirds of Brits confused their mares with their motors and thought that Cheltenham Racecourse was in fact, Silverstone, making it the nation’s least recognisable landmark.

In second place, even though it is one of the world’s largest natural harbours, nearly 60% of the nation mistook Poole Harbour for either Bournemouth or Plymouth.

Meanwhile and maybe most surprising, the legendary Trafalgar Square might be one of the capital’s most popular tourist attractions but over a quarter of Brits failed to recognise the landmark.

Nearly half of respondents couldn’t place the 180 feet long Cerne Giant in Cerne Abbas, Ireland, while 46% of people were stumped by Dorset’s Lulworth Cove.

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At the other end of the spectrum, The Angel of the North was crowned the most recognisable landmark, with 98% of Brits correctly identifying Newcastle’s iconic iron sculpture.

The most confusing motorway in Britain turned out to be a geographical hotspot, with a whopping 93% of the nation correctly identifying Spaghetti Junction.

Over 12,000 respondents completed an online visual survey by identifying aerial images of famous landmarks from around the UK. The survey used the latest geographical profiling technology from www.bing.com/maps to pick out 20 satellite photos of iconic landmarks that would test the nations geographical IQ (GIQ).

bing.com/maps allows Brits to guide themselves around the globe before zooming in to detailed satellite photos where they can plan journeys, explore 3d cities, get directions, avoid traffic or simply enjoy stunning images from around the world.

Marie Thirlwall, marketing manager for Bing said: “It’s interesting to see where the nation’s knowledge lies in terms of GIQ. By using Bing Maps on a local or national scale, users can get to know any area, anytime. The tool enables users to zoom in to make planning perfect walking or driving routes a simple experience.”